Milan has long held a special place in my heart, and I’m beyond excited for Milan Design Week 2025, taking place April 7–13. If you’ve never been, this is your sign—it’s one of the most inspiring events on the global design calendar, where the entire city turns into a vibrant celebration of creativity, innovation, and cultural exchange.
Image courtesy of Saint Laurent
One of the most buzzed-about moments? “Saint Laurent – Charlotte Perriand”, an exclusive exhibition curated by Anthony Vaccarello. Presented during Milan Design Week, it spotlights four rare furniture designs by legendary architect and designer Charlotte Perriand, created between 1943 and 1963. These pieces — once limited to sketches or single editions — have been meticulously reissued and brought into the public eye for the first time. Set in a beautifully conceived space, the exhibition breathes new life into Perriand’s overlooked works and offers each design as a limited, made-to-order edition. A must-see for collectors, design historians, and aesthetes alike.
Whether you’re a collector, designer, or just a lover of beautiful things, Milan Design Week is a must. From the iconic Salone del Mobile to the wildly imaginative Fuorisalone exhibitions that pop up all across the city, there’s energy in every corner. This year’s theme, Connected Worlds, explores how design shapes our lives across digital and physical realms—think immersive installations, AI-driven innovation, and cultural storytelling in the most unexpected ways.
But here’s the thing: Milan during Design Week is packed, so planning ahead is key. I’ve pulled together my personal shortlist of where to stay—places that blend impeccable design with effortless service and just the right amount of glam. Whether it’s your first or tenth time attending, these hotels will make your stay feel like an extension of the design magic happening all around the city.
Image courtesy of Salone del Mobile.Milano
Hotels
Portrait Milano
Tucked inside one of Europe’s oldest monasteries, this hotel is pure elegance. It’s quiet and serene while being right in the middle of Milan’s high-fashion chaos. The service? Flawless. The design? Dreamy. Don’t miss the gorgeous pool under vaulted ceilings—it’s giving old-world-meets-modern-luxury in the best way. Click here for more details.
Image courtesy of Portrait Milano
Casa Cipriani Milano
This is where old-school glamour meets members-only energy (without being too exclusive). The rooms are gorgeously Italian with thoughtful vintage touches, and the upstairs restaurant and lounge are the ultimate spot for people-watching. There’s even a spa and a courtesy Maserati—because why not? Click here for more details.
Image courtesy of Casa Cipriani Milano
Speronari Suites
If you’re looking for a central location with design-forward charm, this is your spot. Just steps from the Duomo, these suites feel cozy and cool with bronze, wood, and thoughtful textures. Their in-house Argentine restaurant and basement sauna are perfect for winding down after full days of showroom hopping. Click here for more details.
Image courtesy of Speronari Suites
Armani Hotel Milano
If you want sleek and iconic, it doesn’t get more Milan than staying in Giorgio Armani’s namesake hotel. From in-room iPads to his signature Pantelleria-inspired soaps, it’s like staying inside a couture collection. Plus, the spa views from the top floor are unreal. Click here for more details.
Image courtesy of Armani Hotel Milano
Hotel Principe Di Savoia
An absolute Milanese classic. This is where fashion insiders and celebs mix over cocktails at the Principe Bar. The rooms are plush, the spa is chic, and the service is gold-standard. And trust me, order the lobster club sandwich from in-room dining—it’s legendary. Click here for more details.
Image courtesy of Hotel Principe Di Savoia
Mandarin Oriental, Milan
A calm oasis just steps from La Scala and the city buzz, this hotel is all about balance. Eastern serenity meets Italian luxury across four interconnected palazzos. Their courtyard becomes the place to sip and socialize during aperitivo hour, and the spa is next-level bliss. Click here for more details.
Image courtesy of Mandarin Oriental, Milan
Milan Design Week isn’t just an event—it’s a full immersion into the future of design, creativity, and culture. Whether you’re wandering the galleries of Salone del Mobile or sipping an aperitivo in a courtyard lit by glowing installations, Milan during this week is pure magic.
If you’re planning to attend, consider booking early and choosing a hotel that enhances your experience. Whether it’s the old-world charm of Portrait Milano or the sleek elegance of the Armani Hotel, where you stay can truly shape your time in the city.
Looking for inspiration? Save this guide as you start planning your Milan Design Week 2025 adventure—it’s the design lover’s trip of a lifetime.
